Red Bay Hospital asks Franklin County to split 10% match for state rural health donation program

Sherry Jolley, representing Red Bay Hospital, asked the Franklin County Commission during public comment on Feb. 17 to share the local 10% match required by the state’s Rural Health Investment Program so the hospital can accept its projected allotment.

A nut graf: Ms. Jolley said Red Bay’s projected allotment from the program was “just under $245,000” and that local government must provide 10% of the allotted funds; she requested the Commission split the county’s portion with the city of Red Bay and estimated the county’s share would be about $12,500.

"The allotted amount Red Bay hospital is projected to received is just under $245,000.00," Ms. Jolley said in remarks included in the meeting packet. She described financial hardships facing the hospital and said the program runs for a three‑year term with re‑evaluation afterward.

Chairman Barry Moore said the commission would need to review the county budget and also consider a similar request from Russellville Hospital; meeting materials include a media comment that Russellville’s projected allotment was about $400,000 and that Russellville had not committed local funds.

The commission did not take immediate action on the request; Chairman Moore asked staff to review budget availability and to coordinate with the affected cities before any commitment.

Ending: The request will be considered during budget review; no binding pledge was made at the Feb. 17 meeting.